"The more I give space in the conversation and prioritize listening over talking, the more Jen feels that I’m invested in understanding her particular struggle, as opposed to rehashing my own."

"People of Colour in the LGBT+ community started and have continuously supported the community from the very beginning, while they too were struggling to fit in."

This Pride Month, we asked the LGBTQ2S+ community within our network to share their experiences as part of both the queer and mental health landscapes. We also sent out disposable cameras and asked our participants to give us a candid glimpse into their day to day lives. You can find Jedah’s photos over on our Instagram! Happy Pride!

Pride 2019: We ask Jedah about Pride and the intersection between mental health and queer identity.

What makes you the most proud to be a part of the queer community?

Seeing people fearlessly being themselves, by sharing their stories and experiences, makes me extremely proud to be part of this community.

What’s something about you that you wish more people knew or paid more attention to?

I wish people paid more attention to People of Colour in the LGBT+ community. People of Colour started and have continuously supported the community from the very beginning, while they too were struggling to fit in. I think it’s important to also take into account that they would be considered a double minority in many parts of the world, including North America.

How does your queer identity intersect or affect your mental health?

Sometimes I feel like I should be doing more within my school community to reach out and promote queerness, by showing that it is okay to be who you are. Other than that guilt, that I rarely feel, my identity has helped show me who I actually am and to be proud to be different, which has really impacted my mental health positively.

Where is your happy place? Why?

My happy place is anywhere I am creating, for now it is usually at school but eventually I hope to create more everywhere - from the kitchen to the art/music studio. I love making new things because I can express my feelings and opinions which can be shown and seen through many different ways and perspectives.